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Monday, 1 May 2017

What not to do if you turn Invisible

What
not to do if you turn Invisible by Ross Welford (Harper Collins
Children’s Books) PB RRP $14.99 ISBN 9780008156350

Reviewed
by Karen Hendriks

From
the author of Time Travelling with a
Hamster comes another creative and entertaining read. It’s every child’s
dream to be invisible and I suspect even some adults. This book would suit from 9 years old
onwards.

The
text is cleverly crafted to grab the reader’s attention and ensure they keep on
reading.

‘On
the way to the kitchen I catch a glimpse of myself in the long hallway mirror.
Well, I say ‘myself’. What I really see is a pair of jeans and my favourite red
T-shirt walking by themselves.’

The
story is deceptively simple to read and surprisingly very different. The book uses humour to explore that
terrifying topic of trying to find yourself and where you fit in this world.
This includes within your own family, with your friends and at school.

There
are bullies and loud mouths that make Ethel feel isolated. Thirteen-year-old
Ethel has a very painful problem, a bad case of spots. Just like anyone else with a very painful
problem Ethel tries to find a solution. With the help of her mate Boydy Ethel
hides her invisibility and along the way they solve a mysterious mystery.

Without
giving away too many secrets Ethel finds her identity and inner strength and as
well as a happy fit with her place in the world.

Teachers
will enjoy reading this book to their class just for fun or for discussion
about bullying and friendship.